The Clarion-Ledger: “During 2011 negotiations, then-Corrections Commissioner Chris Epps said he couldn’t get rid of Mississippi’s private companies running prisons “because of all the money they spread around Jackson,” attorneys told The Clarion-Ledger.

“His remarks took place during the time when federal prosecutors say Epps was receiving more than $700,000 in bribes, including a beachfront condo.

“On Nov. 7, Epps and former state lawmaker Cecil McCrory pleaded not guilty to corruption charges in a 49-count indictment.

“Prosecutors have announced they are continuing to investigate “pervasive” and “systemic corruption” in the state.”